Monitoring Desk:
The ongoing US-Israel war against Iran is entering a volatile new phase, marked by deepening divisions among Western allies and shifting positions in the Gulf region, as concerns grow over the security of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a significant development, NATO members have reportedly refrained from joining the United States in any potential move to control or secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit chokepoint. The reluctance of European allies’ signals widening cracks within the Western bloc over the scope and direction of the conflict.
By contrast, the United Arab Emirates has indicated a willingness to support a US-led initiative aimed at safeguarding maritime traffic in the region. Speaking at an online event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), UAE presidential diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash confirmed that Abu Dhabi could participate in an international effort to ensure the Strait’s security. He also noted that the UAE currently has no active diplomatic engagement with Iran, underscoring growing regional tensions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised address, reaffirmed Israel’s active role in the conflict, stating that Tel Aviv is working closely with US allies in the Gulf. He emphasized that Israel would extend both direct and indirect assistance, hinting at further military or strategic actions. He also claimed that Isreal eliminated Ali Larijani. Ali Larijani is the boss of the Revolutionary Guards.
“We are helping our American allies in the Gulf. We will assist both indirectly and through direct actions — there are many more surprises ahead,” Netanyahu said.
He further stated that Israel’s broader objective includes weakening Iran’s ruling system, suggesting that sustained pressure could eventually enable internal political change. “We are undermining the regime in the hope of giving the people an opportunity to remove it. It will not happen all at once, and it will not be easy,” he added.
Meanwhile, dissent within the United States has surfaced at senior levels. Joseph Kent, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), announced his resignation, citing opposition to the war. In a public statement, Kent said he could not “in good conscience” support the ongoing military campaign, claiming that Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States and alleging that the conflict was driven by external political pressures.
His resignation highlights growing domestic debate in Washington over the justification and long-term implications of the war.
As the conflict intensifies, Iran appears increasingly isolated on the international stage. While no major Muslim-majority country has publicly committed material support, Russia is reportedly considering humanitarian assistance, including food supplies, to Tehran.
The evolving situation suggests that while the United States and Israel, along with select regional partners, are prepared to continue the campaign, key European allies remain cautious, opting to stay out of direct involvement for now.
With maritime security at risk and geopolitical alliances under strain, the war’s trajectory remains uncertain, raising fears of broader regional escalation and global economic disruption.
